Description
These Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels are a delicious and easy-to-make snack, appetizer, or light meal. They combine the classic flavors of spinach and artichoke dip with the satisfying texture of a toasted bagel. Perfect for a quick bite or a crowd-pleasing appetizer!
Ingredients:
- 4 large bagels, halved (plain, everything, or your favorite kind)
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup chopped artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), shredded mozzarella (or Monterey Jack), grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
Step 3: Add the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the bowl. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry to remove excess moisture.
Step 4: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Spread the spinach-artichoke mixture generously and evenly on the cut side of each bagel half.
Step 6: Place the stuffed bagel halves on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 8: Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This will allow the cheese to set a bit and prevent you from burning your mouth!
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a casual snack or a party appetizer. The combination of creamy cheese, savory spinach and artichokes, and the chewy texture of the bagel is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s customizable – you can easily adapt the recipe to your own taste preferences by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch.
- Cut into smaller pieces for party appetizers.
- Pair with a side salad for a more complete meal.
Tips:
- Use mini bagels for bite-sized appetizers – perfect for parties!
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the spinach-artichoke mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- For a crispier top, broil the bagels for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but watch them closely to prevent burning.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese – provolone, Gruyere, or even a little bit of goat cheese would be delicious.
- To make ahead, assemble the bagels and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 per bagel half
- Protein: 15-20g
- Sodium: 500-700mg
Conclusion
Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels are a delightful and versatile recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With their creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, they’re perfect for satisfying cravings or impressing guests. The ease of preparation and customizable nature of the recipe make it a winner for any occasion. So, grab some bagels and get ready to enjoy a taste sensation!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the mixture. Excess water can make the bagels soggy.
Q2: Can I make these bagels ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the bagels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Q3: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Provolone, Gruyere, or even a little bit of goat cheese would be delicious additions.
Q4: I don’t have sour cream. Can I use something else?
A: Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. You can also use mayonnaise in a pinch, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Q5: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped ham, or shredded chicken would be delicious additions to the spinach-artichoke mixture.
